Tribulus Fruit in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
What is Tribulus Fruit?
Tribulus Fruit, also known as Bai Ji Li in TCM, comes from the plant Tribulus terrestris. It is widely used for its ability to regulate the Liver meridian, disperse wind, and promote the smooth flow of qi. In TCM, it is primarily used for issues related to the liver and eyes, as well as for conditions involving wind-heat, which can lead to symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and itching.
Who Would Use Tribulus Fruit?
Tribulus Fruit is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing:
- Liver Qi Stagnation: Those suffering from emotional imbalances, such as irritability, mood swings, or frustration, often linked to liver qi stagnation.
- Eye Disorders: Those with eye issues such as blurred vision, dryness, or sensitivity to light.
- Wind-Heat Symptoms: People dealing with skin irritations, itching, or red, swollen eyes often caused by wind-heat conditions in TCM.
- Muscle Cramps or Spasms: Its calming effect on the liver makes it useful for relieving spasms or muscle tension.
How Is Tribulus Fruit Used?
Tribulus Fruit can be used in a variety of forms in TCM:
Decoction: The fruit is often simmered to create a decoction, which is commonly used for internal treatment of liver and eye conditions.
Powder: It can be ground into a powder and added to formulas for more convenient consumption.
Capsules/Extracts: In modern TCM practice, Tribulus Fruit is also available in capsule or extract form, making it easy to incorporate into daily herbal regimens.
Topical Application: It is sometimes used in topical applications, such as ointments, to alleviate skin irritation or itching caused by wind-heat.
Research on Tribulus Fruit
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Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
Research has shown that Tribulus terrestris possesses strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. These properties may contribute to its role in treating liver-related conditions in TCM.- Reference: A study published in Phytotherapy Research (2017) highlighted the anti-inflammatory potential of Tribulus terrestris, confirming its use for soothing irritated tissues.
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Testosterone and Libido Support:
Tribulus Fruit has been studied for its effects on hormone regulation, particularly testosterone levels. Some studies suggest that Tribulus can help increase libido and support sexual health, though more research is needed to confirm its efficacy.- Reference: Research in The Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2008) indicated that Tribulus terrestris may help enhance libido and sexual function in men by affecting hormone balance.
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Blood Pressure Regulation:
Tribulus Fruit has also been studied for its potential cardioprotective effects, including its ability to lower blood pressure. This aligns with its traditional use in TCM to regulate qi and support overall cardiovascular health.- Reference: A 2016 study published in Frontiers in Pharmacology found that Tribulus terrestris has blood pressure-lowering effects, potentially useful for managing hypertension.
Conclusion
Tribulus Fruit (Bai Ji Li) is a versatile herb in TCM, used for its ability to regulate liver function, disperse wind, and promote qi flow. It is particularly helpful for individuals with liver-related emotional imbalances, eye issues, and skin conditions. Scientific research supports its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cardioprotective properties, making it a valuable herb for various health concerns in both TCM and modern herbal practices.
Herbal Information for Tribulus in Cut Form
Common Name: Tribulus
Botanical Name: Tribulus terrestris
Channels/Meridians: Liver
Other Names: Tribulus Fruit, Puncturevine caltrop fruit, nettle fruit, puncture vine fruit, cathead fruit, yellow vine fruit, goathead fruit,
Pin Yin Name: Bai JI LI
Other Ingredients: None, nothing has been added to this product.
Package Size: 500 Grams ( 1.1 pounds)
Form: Cut / Sliced - sizes vary
Origin: China
Brand: Plum Flower, species - authenticated herbs
Cautions: Do not use if pregnant or nursing. Do not overdose on Bai Ji Li, as it may cause nausea, dizziness, palpitation, and rapid respiration
Additional Information on Bai Ji Li
- Cardiovascular System Support
- Herbal Skin Support
- Soothes the Liver
- Dispels Wind Heat
Product Properties: Bitter, Acrid, Neutral
Naturally Occurring Components: diosgenin, ruscogenin, hecogenin, gitoogenin, tribuloside, kaempferol-3-rutinoside
Some Popular Herbal Combinations with Tribulus Fruit
- Abalone Shell + Tribulus Fruit
- Bupleurum + Tribulus Fruit
- Gastrodia + Tribulus Fruit
- Scutellaria Baicalensis + Tribulus Fruit
- Corydalis + Tribulus Fruit
- Dong Quai + Tribulus Fruit
- Turmeric + Tribulus Fruit
About Plum Flower Quality Herb Cut Bulk Herbs
Plum Flower is an established worldwide manufacturer of high-quality Chinese herbs, and innovative Chinese medicinal herbs and products. Plum Flower uses sulfur-free herbs and laboratory tests its products for contamination and heavy metals, such as mercury, lead, and pesticides.
Main Characteristics (Attributes) of Herbs
- Harvested at the proper level of maturity and correct time of the season to maximize potency.
- Free from Chlorine
- Manufactured without the use of sulphur
- Preservative Free
- Made at GMP internationally certified facilities (Good Manufacturing Practices) Quality control tests are done at the manufacturing site and at third party labs to confirm results
- Aluminum Phosphate free
- Packaged in an airtight sealed bag
- Pin Yin Names and Botanical Names are listed on the bag
- Certificate of Analysis are available upon request
- Conforms to Standards of Chinese Pharmacopeia
- No dyes, colors, or bleaching of the herbs
- We are a authorized direct distributor of Plum Flower Herbs.
- 500 gram bag size which equal anywhere from 4 to 6 cups of herbs
Chinese Traditional herbs should be regarded as a supplementary aspect to modern western healthcare, and not as a replacement. Chinese traditional herbs ( Teas ) emphasize harmony, and balance.
References
Linneweber, Colin. "Benefits of Tribulus Extract." LIVESTRONG.COM. 16 Aug. 2013. <http://www.livestrong.com/article/190056-benefits-of-tribulus-extract/>.
"Tribulus Terrestris." Benefits & Information. Web. 08 July 2015. <http://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-tribulus-terrestris.html>.
